Sausage and Broccoli Pasta
Hola! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a Florida girl falls head over heels for both comforting pasta dinners and bold, soul-warming flavors, this recipe is proof of that magic. This orecchiette with sausage and broccoli has become a family favorite in my home. The little “ear-shaped” pasta cups cradle savory bits of sausage, tender broccoli, and garlicky goodness in every bite. It’s quick, hearty, and exactly the kind of weeknight dinner that satisfies everyone at the table. With just five simple ingredients, you’ll have a warm, comforting pasta dish on the table in just 30 minutes.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | Italian |
| Best Season | Year-round |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: Just pasta, broccoli, sausage, and garlic come together to make a comforting and flavorful dish without fuss.
- Quick and easy: Dinner is ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights when you need something filling fast.
- Family-friendly: Both adults and kids love the mild flavors, and you can add spice with red pepper flakes for heat lovers.
- Nutrient-packed: Broccoli brings fiber, vitamins, and color to the plate, balancing the richness of sausage.
- Customizable: Swap pasta shapes, sausage types, or toppings to suit your taste and pantry staples.
Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This orecchiette with sausage and broccoli is a quick, comforting weeknight pasta made with just 5 simple ingredients and ready in 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 16 oz. broccoli florets (about 2 small crowns)
- 1 lb. orecchiette pasta
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 16 oz. raw Italian sausage
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 cups reserved pasta water
- Toppings: grated parmesan cheese, olive oil, red pepper flakes, freshly cracked pepper, flaky sea salt
Instructions
1. Clean and trim broccoli, chopping florets into small pieces.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions, removing from heat 2 minutes early. Reserve 2 cups pasta water before draining.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook 5–6 minutes until browned.
4. Add broccoli and garlic to the skillet. Cook 5–6 minutes until broccoli softens, adding a splash of water to steam if needed.
5. Add drained pasta and half the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together, adding more water if mixture seems dry.
6. Serve hot, topped with parmesan, olive oil, red pepper flakes, pepper, and sea salt.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Not ideal for freezing due to texture changes in pasta and broccoli.
Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of olive oil if dry.
Use pork, chicken, or turkey sausage. Medium shells or penne can replace orecchiette if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta Dinner Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Ingredients
- 16 oz. broccoli florets (about 2 small crowns)
- 1 lb. orecchiette pasta
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 16 oz. raw Italian sausage
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 cups reserved pasta water
- Toppings: grated parmesan cheese, olive oil, red pepper flakes, freshly cracked pepper, flaky sea salt
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip |
|---|---|
| Broccoli | Chop into small florets so they cook evenly and soften quickly. |
| Orecchiette | If unavailable, substitute with medium shells or penne. |
| Olive oil | A drizzle at the end adds richness and prevents dryness. |
| Italian sausage | Use pork, chicken, or turkey based on your preference. |
| Garlic | Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but jarred minced works in a pinch. |
| Pasta water | Reserve enough, it creates the silky sauce that ties everything together. |
| Parmesan | Freshly grated melts beautifully and adds nutty flavor. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep broccoli: Clean and trim broccoli, chopping florets into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook quickly and blend into the pasta.
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil, cook orecchiette until 2 minutes shy of package instructions. Reserve 2 cups pasta water before draining.
- Brown sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon, and cook 5–6 minutes until browned.
- Add broccoli and garlic: Toss in broccoli and minced garlic. Cook 5–6 minutes until broccoli softens. Add a splash of water to steam if needed.
- Combine with pasta: Add drained pasta and half the reserved water to the skillet. Toss everything together until pasta is coated. Add more pasta water if dry.
- Finish and serve: Plate the pasta and top with parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, red pepper flakes, cracked pepper, and sea salt to taste.
Helpful Tips
- Salt your pasta water generously, it flavors the dish from the start.
- Use a large skillet to give the sausage room to brown properly.
- Don’t skip the pasta water, it’s the secret to a creamy, silky sauce without cream.
- Chop broccoli small for even cooking and easier bites for kids.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Use fresh sausage: Removing it from casings makes it easier to brown evenly.
- Cook pasta al dente: Since it finishes in the skillet, undercook slightly to avoid mushiness.
- Balance flavors: A squeeze of lemon brightens the richness beautifully.
- Layer toppings: Parmesan, olive oil, and pepper flakes add texture and flavor to every bite.
Recipe Variations
- Whole grain pasta: Adds nuttiness and extra fiber, delicious in this dish.
- Different sausage: Try spicy Italian for heat or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian twist: Swap sausage for mushrooms and chickpeas for protein.
- Cheesy upgrade: Add pecorino Romano or burrata for a creamy finish.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
Chop broccoli up to a day ahead to save time. Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days. Freezing isn’t ideal, as pasta and broccoli lose their texture, but you can freeze cooked sausage separately and add it fresh when cooking the pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the orecchiette cradling sausage and broccoli. A final drizzle of olive oil and sprinkling of parmesan makes it restaurant-worthy. Pair with garlic bread and a crisp Italian salad for a full meal.
Pairing Ideas
This pasta pairs beautifully with a light Pinot Grigio or a crisp sparkling water with lemon. Sides like roasted vegetables or garlic knots complete the dinner table.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store in airtight containers in the fridge up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil until warmed through. Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, for a quicker option.
Hosting guests? Impress them with our Mississippi Chicken in the Crockpot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw slightly before adding to the skillet.
What if I can’t find orecchiette?
Medium shells or penne are perfect substitutes. They still catch the sausage and broccoli beautifully.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely, use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just watch cook times, as some brands cook quicker.
Is this dish spicy?
Not by default. Add red pepper flakes if you like a kick.
What kind of sausage works best?
Italian pork sausage is classic, but chicken or turkey sausage are great lighter alternatives.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches so the sausage browns properly instead of steaming.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely, zucchini, spinach, or peas mix in wonderfully with this pasta.
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size | 1 bowl |
|---|---|
| Calories | 485 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbs | 55g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sugar | 3g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Conclusion
This orecchiette with sausage and broccoli recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. With hearty sausage, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the perfect comfort food for any weeknight. Try it once, and it just might become your new go-to dinner.
